Israel provides combat helicopters to Jordan amidst threats from neighboring states and ISIS

Both United States and Israel decline comments; Cobra helicopters to be used to combat threats from Iraq, Syria and ISIS

Cobra Helicopter (Tal Shahar)

Israel supplied Jordan with 16 decommissioned Cobra combat helicopters to aid Jordan in defense against Syria, Iraq and ISIS threats. Jordan’s air force reportedly has 25 Cobra helicopters according to European media sources.

The helicopters were supplied to Israel by the United States, the transfer reportedly approved by the United States. The helicopter has aerial surveillance as well as surface-to-air missile defense capabilities.

Both Israel and the United States have declined any comment on the reports, however, Reuters reported an official stating that, “These choppers are for border security” and that “Around 16” were provided “though some may have been used by the Jordanians for spare parts.”

The reports come during US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter’s visit to the region. Carter met with Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon and also with security officials in Jordan and a visit to Saudi Arabia.